Lottery grant launches fund-raising campaign for new shop in Minety
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A £120,000 fundraising campaign to set up a shop in Minety has got off to a flying start with a donation from the Big Lottery Fund.

The news of the £10,000 donation was announced at a public meeting, when members of on the shop campaign committee also unveiled their buy-a-brick scheme, where virtual ‘bricks’ are sold for £10 each.

“We were delighted with the turnout for our official fundraising launch, which shows the strength of desire there is to have a shop in Minety,” said Charlotte Macleod, who chairs the committee.

“To have a £10,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund right at the start is a big boost. We’ve a long way to go but we are confident that through a mix of donations – through our buy-a-brick idea, local business sponsorship, grants and gifts in kind - we can get there. Our aim is to have the shop up and running by the end of the year.”

The idea for a convenience store was raised in 2017, and a survey of villagers showed overwhelming support. Minety used to have a range of shops including convenience stores, a hairdressers and bakers. Now the nearest are in Oaksey and Ashton Keynes.

Following research, and liaising closely with the Plunkett Foundation, which supports community business projects, a community benefit society was set up. The committee looked into potential locations, and settled on the Old Band Hall, in Silver Street, currently used for office training space and available for sale. The £120,000 target covers the purchase and start-up costs.

Charlotte added: “The location is ideal as it is near Minety Primary School and there will be a lot of people walking and driving past. We are very grateful to the owners of the Old Band Hall, who are residents of Minety, and who are keen to support our plans for a shop.”

To buy a brick visit or to find out more, visit the shop website at minetyshop.co.uk or email minetyshop@gmail.com.